We Made a Sneaker the Earth Approves Of.

We just pulled off something that, frankly, we’re a little proud of. The Bishkek Kicks are a rare thing in footwear — a genuine alternative to sneakers that are street-ready and built to last, yet 100% plastic-free and completely biodegradable.

This wasn’t easy. Creating a durable outdoor shoe with zero synthetics took months of trial and error. But with the artisans at Tumar, we made it happen — combining traditional Kyrgyz felting with modern design to prove that sustainable fashion doesn’t have to compromise on function.

Designing an all-natural, street-ready shoe wasn’t simple. Most sneakers rely on plastics, foams, or chemical glues to hold them together. We refused to go that route.

Instead, we built every layer from natural materials:

• Felted wool uppers that regulate temperature and resist odor.
  
• Cotton canvas for breathable strength.
  
• Natural rubber soles that provide traction and flexibility while staying fully biodegradable.
  

No synthetic threads, no toxic bonding agents — just craftsmanship and ingenuity.

The Bishkek Kicks are for people who value craft and care in equal measure. They’re flexible, breathable, and strong enough for daily wear — whether you’re heading to the café, the studio, or just stepping outside your door.

As one of our team members in Richmond put it, ‘I’ve worn mine nearly every day — and they still look great." They’re meant to last years on your feet — and then return to the earth when their job is done.